How Much Do Replacement Car Keys Cost?
The loss of your car keys is not a pleasant experience. GEICO can help you get back on the road in a hurry with Emergency Roadside Service.
When you lose your key, it is recommended to make a backup. To make it easier, we have put together a guide to the
cost of replacement car keys. cost.
Mechanical Keys
It wasn't too long ago that misplacing a key or losing it was not a huge problem. You could buy an extra and put it in the ignition. However, today's cars are more technologically advanced and it is more expensive to replace keys that have been
lost car keys replacement cost.
The cheapest method of doing this is to get an auto locksmith. They are usually able to duplicate keys made of metal for less than $50. However, this kind of key doesn't come with an electronic chip, and therefore isn't able to unlock the doors or start the engine.
Modern car keys include transponders, also known as chips, which must be programmed correctly. This can only by done by a professional who is knowledgeable about what they are doing, for instance the local locksmith or car dealer professional who is a service expert.
The cost to have a mechanical key copied is relatively cheap however, the programming of the chip used in modern vehicles will typically run you more than $300. The best way to avoid this is to ensure that you always have a backup key, and keep it somewhere safe.
There are five different kinds of
car key fob replacement keys, so it's important to know which one you have prior to receiving assistance in replacing it. An older, standard
car key fob replacement key has a traditional double-edged metal key that can be put into the ignition cylinder and turned to turn on your car. These keys aren't as common however you can find them at your local home improvement store for $10.
The next type is the transponder car key. It has an embedded security microchip that sends a message to the car's computers to unlock the doors and start the engine. It is more difficult to duplicate than a mechanical key and is only possible with specific tools that are accessible to a locksmith dealer in the car. It could cost you $500 or more based on your car's make and model.
Transponder Keys
Cars equipped with transponder keys utilize a microchip inside of the key to communicate with your car. When the key is inserted in the ignition or close to your vehicle, it transmits an electronic code that signals your car to begin. This is an excellent feature to have because it deters theft. However, it also makes stealing your car more difficult as a burglar requires both the right key and transmitter in order to turn on your car and then drive off with it.
The cost of a new transponder key is typically higher than a traditional key, but this is due to the fact that it has to be programmed. It is possible to program a key transponder with many locksmiths, but you should always ask your dealer about whether they are able to do it. This is because they usually have the most experience in programming these kinds of keys, and may be able to give you the most competitive price.
Many automakers have their own distinct anti-theft strategies in place. It is crucial to conduct your research prior to purchasing your next car. You should be able to figure out which type of key is compatible with it and if it requires an electronic remote to unlock it.
Certain vehicles with more modern technology come with a transponder-based password system. They are more complicated as they require specialized tools to program them. They are more secure, however, as they use rolling-code encryption to change the password every time they are used. This means that if your key were cloned it would not work in your car.
It is essential that you don't attempt to break into your car on your own, no matter the type of key. This can cause alarms to insurance companies and could cause a lot of mechanics to refuse to help particularly if they notice indications that your vehicle has been altered or opened. It can be extremely difficult to obtain a replacement key, so contact an Mesa
mobile car key replacement auto lockout expert.
Laser-Cut Keys
You'll find a laser-cut key is much more difficult to take or lose than a traditional key. Keys with laser cutting do not have a notch on the edge. Instead, they feature a groove that is cut to a specific depth in the middle of the key's face. This makes it easy to distinguish between genuine and fake keys when you look at it from the top. The fact that they're easy to recognize also means that you're not at risk of being locked out if you happen to misplace your keys while working or doing around.
If you have an uncut laser key, you will need to contact an expert locksmith who has the necessary equipment to make these types of replacements. Your local hardware store will not be able to make you a laser-cut replacement key, as they lack the equipment to cut and program this kind of key fob.
A locksmith will use an apparatus that resembles the drill used in standard homes to cut the key's metal. This will reduce the entire surface to the desired length. The unique key's code is then extracted from the VIN and the key is then cut according to the specifications of your vehicle.
Laser-cut keys are not like traditional transponder keys since they do not have electronics or chips which can be altered. They must be destroyed and replaced with a new one. This is why laser-cut keys are so expensive, since they require a total rebuild of the entire key.
It's a good idea to keep at least one spare key on hand in the event that you accidentally lose your car keys. You can then contact a locksmith to have the key cut and programmed so you can reenter your vehicle without having to pay for it to be tow by the dealer.
Fobs
If you don't own a classic car, the chances are your vehicle uses one of the most advanced high-tech fobs that permit you to open and start your car without having a key. These keys are equipped with special computer chips that need to be programmed to work with your specific vehicle. Fortunately, some locksmiths can perform this reprogramming on your behalf however it's better to have your dealer handle it. They have the necessary tools and are well-versed in your particular car, which can ensure it's done right.
The cost of having your car's key fob replaced could cost as high as $500, based on the type of key you drive and if it's remote-controlled or smart. This doesn't include the cost of a mechanical backup key you may want in case the fob goes missing or is stolen.
It used to be that losing your car keys was an inconvenience, but now it's an actual issue. That's because modern cars have made the keys so easy and reliable that thieves are now able to steal keys, according to Richard Reina, training director at CARiD. Fortunately, advances in car key technology have also made it more difficult for thieves to steal keys.
The new keys come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but the most expensive one is one that comes with a transponder and a mechanical key inside the same fob. This "smart key" has an adjustable spring-loaded shank that folds down into the fob like the switchblade, making it less likely to be lost or get tucked away in pockets like a coat. They are generally more expensive than standard remote-controlled keys and could need to be replaced by a dealership.
If you have an extra fob that works with your vehicle and that can be duplicated to work in another vehicle, you may think about purchasing an aftermarket replacement from a business like Amazon or a specialist in key and lock that offers programming for various vehicles. You might discover that you can program and cut your own fob for less than the price a dealership will charge, which could save you $200 or more. Just make sure the new key and fob you purchase is the same year, make and model as your original so that it can be programmed to work with your vehicle.